The University of Aruba (UA) celebrated a special moment with its 15th Annual Student Ambassador Awards Ceremony, honoring students who demonstrate that achievement is about more than just good grades. It is about leadership, service, character, connection, and the positive impact a person makes on others.
Under the theme “A Legacy of 15 Years,” the University celebrated a group of students who embody the energy of a UAchiever: students who show commitment, help and motivate others, contribute to UA and the Aruban community, and help create a stronger university experience for those around them.
The Student Ambassador Award recognizes students who are actively involved in the University and/or the Aruban community, willing to go the extra mile to help others, demonstrate a friendly attitude, participate in UA or program activities, and possess strong social and communication skills.
The recipients of the Student Ambassador Award 2025–2026 were:
Academic Foundation Year – Dayna Albertus, recognized for making the most of the opportunities during her journey in AFY, including completing 77 credits, internships, research experience, Shoco Wellness workshops, external training, and receiving the AFY Bridge Builder Award.
Office of International Affairs – Sabrine Setrodjemino, recognized for her organizational skills, commitment, and support to the OIA office, while demonstrating extraordinary determination in completing her bachelor’s degree and pursuing her master’s studies.
Bachelor of Arts in Organization, Governance and Management (OGM) – Dieter Croes stood out! But it is noted that together with his fellow students Roan, Brandon, and Ronan, they were recognized for their collective contribution to OGM activities and for inspiring and informing current and future OGM students.
Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Engineering (SISSTEM) – Stephen Richards, recognized for his courteous attitude, support for his team members Kiran and Josianne, willingness to share knowledge through the Makerspace Bus, and participation in the Turning the Tide project, which connects UA with the local community.
Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and Development (SWD) – Cendeline Boekhoudt, recognized for her commitment to her studies and program, participation in the Open House, accreditation activities, and student events, contribution to the UA music band, and willingness to help fellow students.
Library/Bookstore – Derron de Mey, recognized for his patience and dedication in helping new students navigate books, procedures, and university requirements, as well as his willingness to lend a hand whenever support is needed.
Bachelor’s Degree in Aruban Law – Damon Illes, recognized for his constant support to fellow students, academic staff, and the University, including assisting with activities such as the Open House.
Master’s Degree in Law – Lianne Candelaria, recognized for her strong academic involvement, support to fellow students, active participation in the Faculty of Law, and commitment to promoting UA both internally and externally.
Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality, and Tourism Management Studies (FHTMS) – Jurstin Paesch, recognized for his commitment to his goals as a student, employee, and member of the local community, and for expanding his horizons through international opportunities in global health, sustainable entrepreneurship, and leadership.
Faculty of Finance and Economics (FEF) – Lucirene Tromp, recognized for her energetic and social presence, support to student representatives, engagement with students, and contributions to UA and FEF events and social media.
Office of Student Affairs (Social Media Team) – Keon Dania, recognized for three years of dedication, creativity, and contribution to UA’s visual image and marketing efforts, growing into an important part of the University’s creative team.
During the ceremony, the UA Music Club was also recognized as Student Club of the Year 2025–2026. What started as a student club grew into a band that contributes to Christmas celebrations, Open House, and other university events. The club demonstrates how students can create, inspire, and bring people together.
The evening also featured a significant contribution from Setar N.V., which presented 10,000 guilders to the Student Development Fund, providing support to full-time UA students pursuing academic and professional opportunities such as attending conferences, exchanges, international internships, and social entrepreneurship.
UA expresses its sincere gratitude to its sponsors — Setar N.V., Giannis Group, Glorias, Royal Aruba Aloe, Subway Aruba, and Wow Cosmetics — whose generosity and trust in the potential of our students helped make this celebration possible.
One of the most inspiring moments of the evening was the participation of Dr. Chun, whose personal journey embodies the spirit of a UAchiever. He began his journey at UA as a student and as the University’s first Student Affairs student assistant. Today, he holds the position of Dean of the Faculty of Law. His story is a powerful reminder that where a student starts does not determine where they can go. Opportunities, perseverance, inspiration, and impact can shape an extraordinary path.
This celebration reflects the University’s broader vision to be locally and globally engaged; preparing students not only for their careers, but also to become critical and actively engaged citizens who contribute meaningfully to Aruba and the world.
The UA Strategic Plan emphasizes transforming lives, strengthening communities, and cultivating generations that contribute meaningfully to Aruba.
The essence of the Student Ambassador Awards is a celebration of the University’s conviction that students are not merely recipients of education; they are part of what makes the University of Aruba what it is today.
Through their leadership, ideas, service, creativity, and willingness to help others, these students help build the UA community today while helping shape the Aruba of tomorrow.
The University of Aruba congratulates all its Student Ambassadors and UAchievers. We see you. We value you. We are proud of you, and we look forward with enthusiasm to the impact you will continue to make at UA, in Aruba, and beyond.
